Quebec ClimateQuebec encompasses a wide range of climatic
conditions. The northern interior has long, very cold winters, often with
extreme conditions, and short summers. The southern portion of the province
experiences four very distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and hot,
often humid, summers. Quebec is pretty much a three-season destination
-- don't go in winter unless you want to ski. Early spring -- when it's
most likely to be damp and chilly -- is probably our least-favorite time
to visit, but by late spring, the grass begins to grow and the flowers
start to bloom -- it's a lovely time, if brief.
Quebecois know how to cope with winter: They have festivals and carnivals.
There's lots of snow, and temperatures range from 7 to 23 F/-15 to -5
C in an average January, though readings below 0 F/-18 C are not uncommon.
Warm layers are a must anywhere in wintertime Quebec -- don't forget to
take along or buy something to cover your ears and hands. Summer may be
surprisingly hot. In Montreal, temperatures slide into the 90s F/32 C,
though average summer highs along the lower St. Lawrence are around 80
F/26 C. The Gaspe Peninsula is a little cooler, with nights in the low
50s F/10-12 C. Fall is crisp and bright with colorful foliage. Temperatures
range from 42 to 69 F/5 to 20 C.